South Coast Plaza (Costa Mesa, Calif.) announced the grand opening of newly designed and expanded boutiques for Bvlgari, Cartier and Gucci. The nearly simultaneous debut of these flagship stores for the trio of global brands “makes this one of the most transformative times in the history of South Coast Plaza, and luxury retail anywhere,” the shopping complex operator said in a news release.
Here are some specifics on each of those retailers’ new spaces:
- Rome-based Bvlgari’s 5000-square-foot boutique features a modern design concept pays tribute to Rome’s rich heritage. Inside, guests will discover a dedicated men’s watches section, private shopping salons and an array of Bvlgari handbags. The South Coast Plaza flagship introduces the first-ever Bvlgari Lounge in North America—a bar and café offering light refreshments. “I think there is a Bvlgari before and a Bvlgari after South Coast Plaza,” Bvlgari North America CEO Herve Perrot said about the new boutique.
- Cartier has completed the expansion of its newly designed boutique. The 8,000-square-foot flagship has been thoroughly re-imagined from the exterior to its lush salons. The overall design pairs modern shapes with the New York-based Maison’s timeless design codes and a touch of whimsical details, including references to Orange County’s beach culture. “The boutique feels like an extension of the stunning Orange County landscape and is reflective of the casual elegance of its community,” said Walter Bolognino, President and CEO of New York-based Cartier North America.
- Gucci has unveiled a newly expanded boutique spanning two floors, offering a wider selection from the House’s collections. The 17,500-square-foot flagship store for the Florence-based luxury house design features custom marble flooring with geometric shapes drawing inspiration from designs found in historic buildings. Clean lines and understated tones are complemented by soft rich fabrics adorning the walls, along with ivory boiserie acting as a delicate backdrop to the items on display, including dedicated areas for the Gucci Valigeria travel collection on both levels.
Beyond that trio of openings, new brands slated to debut at the complex this year include Alaia, Amiri, Armani Caffe, Courrèges, Jacques Marie Mage, Mejuri and Santa Maria Novella, along with new and expanded boutiques for existing brands Baccarat, Chloé, Chopard, Dior Homme, Lanvin, Rolex and Zegna.